The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take good care of it the value of it will increase as time passes.

We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We sourced information from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief History

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, Onlinedesignerhandbags handbags became fashionable and also a useful tool to carry makeup, money and onlinedesignerhandbags other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in design and function, to what we see today as designer Radley Handbags - Crossbody And Satchel Bags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags changed from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of stunning and bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still found in many fashions.

During WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and the rules for what women could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were free to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the creativity of the era with bags in leather, vinyl, chains, and even chainmail. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes like the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for instance, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their fashion. Due to the demand, it could take months or even weeks to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great option for those who cannot be without the latest designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer bags of all time.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that is also gaining popularity with the millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since shifted away from the signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend, and was seen on plenty of runway styles this season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine but casual style is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

For those who prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimalist hardware provide a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are crafted with quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.

While the iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags are also a the perfect combination of fashion and function with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made a mark with their stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand founded in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothing for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

In addition other brands have also created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained acclaim for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. Staud's bags feature an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you hire designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs, and the brand offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also has several vegan bags, which are becoming more fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season come in many designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for every person. This selection includes a few new pieces that have excited fashion experts as well as some classics that have been coveted for years to come.

According to a resale data report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with reviewers and admirers.

For a more contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. It is described as "a masterpiece" by its creator, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 leather components and a amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its items on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the inspiration behind the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its directional stitching.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine piece that could become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.